How To Properly Hang A Quilt
A hand-stitched quilt is an attractive artwork and a unique wall decor that is infused with the personality of whomever created it. Each section of fabric is carefully chosen, cut by hand, and stitched into place to form a beautiful cover or wall hanging. It is important to properly hang the finished piece, not only to highlight the design in the best way possible, but also to keep it from becoming damaged. Consider the the following steps before hanging a new quilt or one that was stitched years ago. Once you have hung the quilt, it will be impressive-looking for many years to come.
Location is Important
It is important to pick out a good location prior to hanging the quilt. Avoid locations that receive direct sunlight or even potentially damaging artificial light. Even from just several inches away, light bulbs can become extremely hot and cause damage to the material. In addition, do not hang a quilt over a source of heat or in an area with high humidity. As a rule, if the temperature and humidity level feels comfortable, it is more than likely an ideal location to hang fabric items.
Temperature, sunlight, and humidity are not the only conditions requiring constant control. If small children are present, do not hang a quilt or tapestries within reach. Little hands can soil the fabric and cause permanent staining. Hang it out of reach of children and pets, and select a desirable location to keep it in superior condition and looking as good as the day it was completed.
Decide on a Frame or a Simpler Method
Unlike a pair of decorative wall candle sconces that need a simple nail or screw to be successfully mounted on the wall, hanging a quilt takes greater consideration and planning.
One of the best ways to hang a quilt involves framing the finished piece. Work with a professional framer, and insist on archival foam core that is covered with a backing of fabric. The framer will squarely stitch the fabric to the board and finish the job with an attractive wooden frame. The stitching will not be visible when you hang the framed work of art, and it will look as lovely as ever. Albeit not the least expensive way to display heavy fabric, this is, yet, one of the best ways. Safe and attractive methods exist, and they can be undertaken without help from an expert.
Think about sewing a durable sleeve to the back edge of the quilt, and then display it on a drapery rod. To keep the heavy fabric stable, a sleeve can also be sewn to the opposite end, and a drapery rod can be used to secure it along the bottom. The sleeves will not be visible from the front, and if sewn straight it will look as nice as professional framing.
Quilts can also be hung using Velcro strips. Attach the rough looped side of the Velcro to the top and bottom edge of the back of the quilt. Use a yardstick, a level, and a pencil to create a horizontal line on the wall. Attach the soft side of the Velcro along the edge of the line and the quilt will look straight when displayed. Attach another Velcro strip to the bottom of the quilt, and follow the same method of application. Take your time and attach the Velcro carefully and the quilt will hang straight and look outstanding.
Choose an Attractive Rod for Hanging
If you choose a sleeve to hang the quilt with, it will be necessary to choose one or two drapery rods. Consider the style of the quilt when selecting a rod to hang it on. A drapery rod with elegantly crafted finials is perfect for hanging an elegant quilt. A hanging rod with wrought iron finials is ideal for antique or old fashioned quilts. The options for drapery rods are endless, and the rod style you choose greatly depends on the look you want to achieve.
Mounting the Hardware
After selecting drapery rods, the next step is mounting the hardware. Locate a wall stud before mounting the first bracket, and use wall anchors to secure the other. Also, mark the locations for the brackets using a pencil, a tape measure, and a level. This will ensure the quilt will hang straight and with the right amount of space between brackets. Follow the same process when securing bottom brackets before preparing to hang the quilt.
Hanging Tips
If you have decided to hang the quilt with drapery rods, once all of the brackets are in place, lay the quilt on a clean surface such as a bed or a table, and carefully thread the top rod through the sleeve. With a little assistance from an extra pair of hands, hang the quilt. It will be easy to thread the second rod through the bottom sleeve and hang it on the brackets.
Although a quilt looks lovely when displayed on a bed, hanging the quilt on the wall allows the design to be easily seen. Centering a quilt on a bare wall, no matter the method of hanging, is a great way to enjoy the beauty of the design and the talent that went into making a finely stitched work of art. Once you hang a quilt on a wall you will always want to have one on display.
About the Author
Article by Carol Mcguire of “Wall Decor and Home Accents”. Check out our wide selection of wall decor and grapes wall decor online.
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